Rivalries & Top Games to Attend

Blue Key Victory Bell

Rival Team: Ball State Cardinals

You won’t want to miss it when Indiana State and Ball State get together. The rivalry between the Sycamores and Cardinals dates back to 1924 and is one of the best football rivalries in the state of Indiana. The winner of the matchup takes home the Victory Bell as well as bragging rights, so don’t miss it when these two longtime rivals meet next.

Indiana State vs Illinois State

Rival Team: Illinois State Redbirds

The Redbirds and Sycamores have met on the gridiron every year since 1969 creating an intense rivalry between these two Missouri Valley Conference schools. The Redbirds hold a slim lead in the all-time series 36-30-2, but you won’t want to miss it when the Sycamores try to narrow the gap this season.

Indiana State vs Southern Illinois

Rival Team: Southern Illinois Salukis

It’s always a big matchup when the Sycamores and Salukis square off. However, no match between the two was bigger than their meeting in the 1949 Shrine Bowl. While the Salukis may have won that matchup, there are always a lot of bragging rights on the line when these two rivals meet making every Indiana State-Southern Illinois game a must-see.

Indiana State vs Eastern Illinois

Rival Team: Eastern Illinois Panthers

Fans of both the Panthers and Sycamores travel well to the away games for this rivalry as the schools are only 50 miles apart. The Eastern Illinois-Indiana State rivalry was renewed in 2017, and the two schools will play a home and home series until 2020, so make sure to get your tickets when the Panthers come to town.

SuperTailgate Awards

If you enjoyed this post, sign up for our monthly Tailgate & Ticket Giveaway!

100% Privacy. We will never spam you.

Leave this field empty if you're human:

Fast facts

League: NCAA Division I FCS

Team:Indiana State Sycamores

Head Coach: Curt Mallory

Team Mascot: Sycamore Sam

Year Opened:1924

Capacity:12764

City / State:Terre Haute / Indiana

Ever forget something
for a Tailgate?

This checklist will ensure you never forget an item for
your tailgate ever again. Download today to have the best time Possible!